The Cincinnati Bengals’ defense will be without its leading pass rusher, DE Antwan Odom, and nickel cornerback Adam Jones, both of whom were declared inactive for Sunday’s game against the Carolina Panthers.

The Bengals have a history, a still-growing history, of giving players second chances. So maybe it shouldn’t have been all that surprising Tuesday when speculation begin filtering into the NFL newsroom that the recently released JaMarcus Russell could be Cincinnati-bound.

We’ve moved into the postdraft phase of the NFL season, when a sizable number of veterans remain on the street as teams re-evaluate their rosters. Adam Jones, who hasn’t played in the NFL since 2008, is one of the most recognizable names on that list.

The Lions conducted visits with CB Adam “Pacman” Jones and DT Anthony Hargrove last week as part of the process in the overhaul of their defense. Signings don’t sound imminent, though, as coach Jim Schwartz said Sunday the team is still gathering information.

The Lions spoke with the Chargers about a possible trade for former first-round pick Antonio Cromartie but, despite their need for a corner, Detroit is unlikely to consummate a deal when the league year begins March 5.